A YOUNG Halesowen actress wowed audiences with her panto character Baby Bear – earning her a best performance award.

Aimee Smyllie was voted by theatre goers as top performer in Goldilocks and the Three Bears at the Cornbow Hall in the new year.

The 14-year-old, who has been a member of Startime Variety for two years, said she was “very surprised” to win the society’s annual Tony Vincent Award.

She is the youngest person to receive the award which was set up in memory of stalwart member and musician Tony Vincent who died about 13 years ago.

Startime press officer Jeanette Greenway said: “The award has been presented since his death and Aimee is the youngest ever to receive it.

“She did very well as it was her first principal role – a star for the future and we definitely hope she will continue to perform with us.”

Aimee, who attends Hagley RC High School, added: “I was really glad to win because I put a lot of effort into the part.”

She is now looking forward to the first round of auditions for next year’s pantomime on Sunday.

The group, which has been staging pantos since the early 1970s, has chosen Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood as its next production.

It will be performed at the Cornbow Hall from Wednesday to Saturday January 28 to 31.

Mrs Greenway appealed for new members to join to take part in the show.

“We are looking for people aged 16 and over who can sing and dance,” she said.

Rehearsals will be Wednesdays and Fridays at Lutley Primary School, Brookwillow Road.

Anyone interested in taking part should call Mrs Greenway on 0121 550 3899.